UNITED STATES: Kerbal Space Program 2 (KSP2) has just released its early access version for PC gamers, offering fans of space games more rockets, more destinations, and an expanded tutorial system.
Kerbal Space Program 2
However, what makes this new version even more exciting is the authentic audio captured from a real-life rocket launch.
Kerbal Space Program 2’s audio director, Howard Mostrom, captured the sound of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V double satellite launch on October 4, 2022, which he re-engineered for different locations in the game.
Mostrom spent a day before the launch setting up nine condenser microphones at the pad and 14 more at other locations to produce high-fidelity 32-bit resolution audio, which resulted in around 600 gigabytes of data.
He had to deal with the technical challenges of recording near the rocket, including wind filters and coverings to stop water spray and kerosene (RP-1) smell from lingering on the equipment.
Despite the challenges, Mostrom described the experience as “life-changing” and added that he tried his best to bring the same emotions into the game.
Mostrom explained that many interesting sounds were happening during the launch. He added that he is using a lot of the real-life launch ambiences for the in-game launch pad.
The Kerbal Space Program 2 staff, including Mostrom, aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists and space enthusiasts with the game’s realistic audio and gameplay.
Mostrom even mentioned how his children were interested in science and rocket science, thanks to the game. “It’s very, very humbling to see how influential this game can be to the science community and the world at large,” he added.
Kerbal Space Program 2’s early access version may not have all the features yet, but the game’s fans expect more in the coming weeks and months. With the addition of authentic rocket audio, players can experience a more realistic and immersive space exploration game.
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